Essure Birth Control Lawsuit - Important Information

Essure is a birth control device that offers women a permanent solution to prevent pregnancy. This method involves the placement of small flexible coils into the fallopian tubes, causing scar tissues to form and block the tubes, thus preventing fertilization. While Essure was marketed as a safe and effective birth control option, it has been the subject of controversy and legal action. In recent years, thousands of women have reported severe side effects and complications related to the use of Essure. This article aims to provide important information regarding the Essure birth control device, including an overview, associated risks, FDA restrictions and warnings, seeking legal recourse, and the importance of consulting with a specialized attorney.

Overview of Essure Birth Control

Essure is a non-surgical method of permanent birth control that was developed by Conceptus Inc. and later acquired by Bayer. It is an alternative to traditional tubal ligation or "getting your tubes tied." The Essure device consists of two small metal coils made of nitinol, a nickel-titanium alloy, and a small polyester fiber, which is placed into the fallopian tubes through the cervix. The procedure is typically done in a doctor's office and does not involve any incisions or anesthesia. It is marketed as a quick and convenient option for women who do not wish to have any more children.

Once the coils are in place, the body starts to react to them by causing scar tissue to form around the coils. This scar tissue blocks the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from reaching the eggs and thereby preventing pregnancy. It typically takes about three months for the scar tissue to fully form and effectively block the tubes. During this time, women are advised to use an additional form of birth control to ensure effectiveness.

Risks Associated with Essure

While Essure was initially touted as a safe and effective form of permanent birth control, numerous reports and studies have indicated otherwise. Many women have reported experiencing severe side effects and complications after receiving the Essure device. Some of the common adverse effects associated with Essure include:

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Abnormal bleeding
• Cramping
• Back pain
• Migration of the device
• Allergic reactions to the materials used in the device
• Device failure leading to unintended pregnancies
• Perforation of organs

These side effects can significantly affect a woman's quality of life and may require additional medical interventions to address the complications. Many women have had to undergo surgeries to remove the Essure device due to the severity of their symptoms. The long-term implications of using Essure are still being studied, and there is growing concern about the potential for chronic health problems associated with the device.

FDA Restrictions and Warnings

Due to the growing number of complaints and reports of complications associated with Essure, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken measures to address the issue. In 2016, the FDA restricted the sale and distribution of Essure, requiring physicians to provide patients with a checklist of the associated risks before the procedure is performed. This checklist includes information about the potential complications and adverse events that have been reported by other women who have undergone the Essure procedure.

In addition to the restrictions, the FDA issued a black box warning for Essure in 2016. A black box warning is the most serious type of warning that the FDA can issue for a medical device or medication. It is intended to draw attention to significant risks and potential complications associated with the product.

The black box warning for Essure includes information about the risks of chronic pelvic pain, migration of the device, allergic reactions, and the potential for the device to break or perforate organs. It also highlights the importance of fully understanding the risks and benefits of the procedure before deciding to proceed with Essure.

Seeking Legal Recourse

If you have experienced severe side effects or complications related to the use of Essure, it is important to understand that you may have legal options available to you. Thousands of women have filed lawsuits against Bayer, alleging that they were not adequately warned about the risks associated with Essure and that the device caused them significant harm.

By filing a lawsuit, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the use of Essure. It is important to consult with an attorney who specializes in liability cases, as they will have the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the complex legal process involved in these types of lawsuits.

Consultation with a Specialized Attorney

If you are considering legal action due to harm caused by Essure, it is crucial to consult with an attorney who specializes in liability cases. These attorneys have the necessary expertise and knowledge to assess your case and determine whether you have a valid claim against the manufacturer of Essure.

During your initial consultation with a specialized attorney, they will review the details of your case, including your medical records, any documentation of adverse effects, and the impact that Essure has had on your health and quality of life. They will then explain your legal rights and options, as well as the potential outcomes of pursuing legal action.

It is important to choose an attorney who has a track record of success in handling similar cases and who has the resources and dedication to fight for your rights. They will guide you through the legal process, including filing a lawsuit, gathering evidence, negotiating with the manufacturer, and representing you in court if necessary.

Essure can cause severe complications and side effects, leading many women to seek legal action against the manufacturer. If you have been harmed by Essure, it is essential to consult with a specialized attorney to explore your legal options and take appropriate action.